LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP

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[04:46 pm] 11 April, 2007

"Is Armenia Russia’s outpost or military partner?"

Armenian journalists tried to find out the answer to the question
from RF first premier Sergey Ivanov.

"Armenia is Russia’s military partner. This is based on bilateral
military, historical-cultural, humanitarian, economic and other
interests which are derived from the ancient past."

Our military bases in Armenia imply no aggression and aren’t directed
against any country. They merely secure common security as we are
members of the collective security treaty.

This was the toughest question Sergey Ivanov had to answer during
today’s press conference. To recover the situation, RA Prime Minister
Serge Sargsyan kept silent for a moment, then laughed for a few
seconds and added, "I assume that some people benefit from such
speculations. But I am convinced that the author meant well when saying
these words. It was only a stumbling of a tongue." Serge Sargsyan
said his opinion both in Armenian and in Russian to please Mr. Ivanov.

Serge Sargsyan shared his concern that the electoral processes might
mingle with the activity of the government. Further on he added, "On
the other hand, the elections enhance workability as the executive
body does its utmost to fulfill its responsibilities better taking
into account the interests of the electorate. On the whole, the
electoral processes don’t hinder the routine of the government."

As for Serge Sargsyan’s nomination in the RA Prime Minister’s post,
Mr. Ivanov said, "I have known Serge Sargsyan for ages; since last
century." Ivanov said nothing more but the words said everything in
view of the Russia-Armenian political and economic relations.